Los Apson

Emerging from the town of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Los Apson, whose name is an ingenious blend of their hometown’s initials, became a rock sensation in Mexico during the 1960s. Originally named Los Apson Boys, the group was put together by brothers Arturo and Francisco “Pancho” Durazo, whose proximity to the US border exposed them to a rich mix of English hits that served as inspiration for their early material. In 1957, they cemented their line-up with the additions of José Luis García, Frankie Gámez, Raúl "Cubano" Cota, and Gilberto "Gil" Maldonado. After recruiting singer Leopoldo "Polo" Sánchez Labastida, Los Apson made their official recording debut in 1963 with Llegaron Los Apson, followed by Bailando y Cantando con Los Apson later that year. Classics like "Fue en un Café" (their take on "Under the Boardwalk"), "Susie Q," and "Solo un Sueño" (inspired by "Just a Dream") were just a few that shot them to fame. Leading the Invasión Norteña movement, Los Apson released a handful of well-received albums over the following years, including No Puedes Decirme Adiós (1964), and Por Eso Estamos Como Estamos (1965). Following Polo's departure in 1965, Los Apson kept collaborating with the singer on his solo project, serving as his backing band on hits such as "Ana" and "El Último Beso," based on a song by The Cavaliers. Despite multiple lineup changes, and most founding members having passed away, the group continued to tour and record well into the 21st century.